Community
25 June, 2025
Additional grant available for farmers
AN ANNOUNCEMENT by the Allan Labor Government has confirmed the opening of $69 million in drought support packages state-wide.
Last Thursday Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence announced the opening of the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants program with updated guidelines based on farmer feedback and expanded eligible activities.
Eligible south west Victorian farmers are now able to apply for $10,000 in funding, an increase from the $5000 co-contribution grant which had previously been announced due to the extreme drought conditions persisting in the area.
The program is managed by Rural Finance and eligible activities under the grant now include pasture re-establishment and water carting – reflecting the wide-ranging pressures farmers are facing and ensuring support reaches where it’s needed most.
“We are listening to what farmers are telling us and tailoring our support to meet their needs,” Ms Spence said.
“It’s so important that farmers and their families know they are not alone, which is why the Look Over the Farm Gate program gives them the opportunity to come together with their community and connect with their neighbours.”
Agriculture Victoria’s technical decision-making services are also now live and farmers across the state can access a free one-on-one consultation with a farm advisor to help make the difficult decisions they are facing, particularly due to fodder and water shortages.
Agriculture Victoria has engaged 60 consultancy businesses in Victoria, including more than 90 individual farm advisors, who will assist farmers to act and develop a drought action management plan.
The Look Over the Farm Gate farmer mental health and wellbeing program is also now open, bringing communities together and supporting farmers and farm families under stress.
The program, managed by the National Centre for Farmer Health on behalf of the Government, will provide grants of up to $5000 for community-led events which promote social connection and mental health awareness.
Other supports are also available including the Farm Household Allowance and Regional Investment Corporation loans.
The Rural Financial Counselling Service offers free, confidential and independent financial information, options, decision-making support and referral services to farmers and small rural businesses who are in, or at risk of, financial hardship.
For more information about available drought support, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons or call 136 186.
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